Department of Collections: Resource Trials
The University Libraries is committed to providing the Virginia Tech community with the information that it needs, and so we keep an eye out for new resources that may fill gaps in what we provide. Each semester, the Collections department organizes trials for databases that are all-new or expand on our existing holdings. With trials, we can gather feedback from the community about potential resources before we fully invest in a subscription or a purchase. Below, you can find more information about our process along with links to any active trials.
Resource Training Sessions
Information about resource training sessions for any active trials is available below.
FAQ
How do I request a trial for a resource?
The best way to request a trial is by contacting the librarian that is the liaison to your subject area. To find out who your liaison librarian is, head to our research guides and find the libriarian associated with research guides in your area.
Most trials seem to be for databases. Can I request a trial for a journal?
We are rarely able to arrange trials for journals. However, if there is a journal that you wish to see the library subscribe to, please still contact your library liaison with your request.
How long are trial resources available?
Most database trials are for 30 days. Occasionally, the trial period may be shorter or longer, depending on the provider.
When does the libraries run trials?
Typically during October in fall and then in March during spring. These times are mid-semester when we have the best chance of getting input from faculty and students..
Is there a way to provide feedback on a resources that the libraries is currently trialing?
Yes! Each trial database on the A-Z Databases page will have a link to a feedback form on the description.This allows us to record all input on a given product in a single place..Feedback is a key part of our decision on whether or not to move forward with a resource after the trial period is over.
Active Trials
The University Libraries organizes trials for potential new resources in October, March, and sometimes in April. Active trials are listed below.
- Indigenous Life in AmericaKindly provide feedback on this database, currently on trial until March 31, 2025.
Indigenous Life in America, covering the Indigenous experience in America from 1690 to present, is a digital collection of information compiling various aspects of Native American and Indigenous peoples' lives across the United States, including their history, culture, traditions, social structures, current issues, and demographics. - London Symphony OrchestraPlease provide feedback on this database, which is currently on trial ending March 31, 2025.
The London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) collections on Bloomsbury Video Library, are streaming collections of LSO performances. The collections offer extensive variety from Bach to Mahler, to 21st century composers like Soweto Kinch and Hannah Kendall. Stream concerts conducted by Sir Simon Rattle and Sir Antonio Pappano as well as performances featuring guest musicians Leonidas Kavakos, Gerald Finley, Barbara Hannigan, Julia Bullock and many others. - MarinLitPlease provide feedback on this database, which is currently on trial ending March 31, 2025.
MarinLit, from the Royal Society of Chemistry, is a database dedicated to marine natural products research that includes information on compounds, articles, and taxonomy. - Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Food StudiesPlease provide feedback on this database, which is currently on trial ending March 31, 2025.
Part of the larger Online Research Encyclopedias (OREs), the Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Food Studies covers food and identity including race and gender, industrial labor, history of cuisine, the science of taste, fermentation, food justice, food waste, weight stigma, and globalization, among many other topics. The encyclopedia is dynamic with peer-reviewed overview articles continuously updated by a community of leading scholars and researchers.
